It would seem that onion peels are just another waste from which we will have no use. After all, the best is inside. Not completely! Scientists have discovered that the outer layers of this vegetable also contain substances valuable for health. The discovery was made by accident – the researchers just wanted to see how to use different types of waste. The result was surprising: the quercetin present in onion is a strong antioxidant, in addition, perfectly absorbed by the human body.
The outer layer of the onion – what it is, everyone can see. These are hard, light brown husks that, when peeled, always end up among other garbage. In addition to the already mentioned quercetin, which is a phenolic compound with healing properties, we will find a large amount of dietary fiber, flavonoids and sulfur compounds in them. All these ingredients have an excellent effect on our body, and taking into account the low price and easy availability of onion, it is one of the cheapest and effective products that improve our health.
An antioxidant good for everything
Antioxidants are compounds that are essential for the proper functioning of the body. When they are supplied in the right amounts (not too small and not too large), they eliminate free radicals and thus reduce the risk of cancer and delay the aging process of the body. There are many sources of antioxidants, but the quercetin present in the shells is well absorbed by humans and is a natural antioxidant that can be found, among others, in in pharmacy auxiliary allergy medications.
The properties of quercetin include:
- Cancer protection,
- Reducing the risk of developing heart disease,
- Help in the treatment of asthma,
- anti-inflammatory effect,
- Anti-allergic effect.
And many others. This antioxidant has a positive effect on almost every aspect of health. It is not recommended to use products containing it during breastfeeding and pregnancy.
In addition, the shells contain prebiotics, i.e. fructans, which help maintain the beneficial bacterial flora in the intestines. We also find sulfur compounds in them, which have a good effect on the circulatory system and reduce the level of cholesterol in the blood.
How to use onion peels?
It is best to consume them in the form of an infusion, which will help in the treatment of obesity, allergies, problems with food ailments, allergies, or problems with blood circulation. Making the infusion is very simple: a handful of shells should be boiled in a liter of water, then left for a quarter of an hour. After straining, you can drink this tea at any time of the day, e.g. in the morning and evening.